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History Personal Statement Examples

Learn how to write a good History personal statement with guidance from the best student examples. Here, we present two history personal statement examples focusing on the medieval and ancient periods to provide you with inspiration and valuable insights into preparing your university application.

You can use it for Oxford , Cambridge , or any other university.

History Personal Statement Example

History, which has fascinated and engaged me from early on in my education journey, has become my deep passion and formed my intellectual journey. Teaching History at AS-Level proved transformative despite initial scepticism from others: through my independent study of the Crusades and Norman Conquest of England, I achieved outstanding results while honing valuable self-directed learning, exam preparation skills, time management practices and time commitment skills that I now hope to pursue at one of Britain’s premier universities as an undergraduate degree candidate in History.

My interest in history was ignited through reading Ladybird ‘Adventures from History’ books handed down to me, featuring stories about Cleopatra to Charles II and more. As I progressed, my literary journey expanded, including readings from respected historians such as Asbridge and Stubbs. Reading has not only expanded my knowledge but has also inspired a desire to delve deep into historical interpretation and historiography.

Tosh’s works, in particular, have opened my eyes to historical truth and its ever-evolving narrative of history. Additionally, I find comfort in reading both factual and fictional literature like Bernard Cornwell and Sharon Kay Penman who bring history alive through storytelling.

Beyond academic study, I took the initiative of starting an Ancient History Club at my school. Not only has this engaging venture brought me immense satisfaction but has also sharpened my teamwork and leadership abilities. From organizing collective research projects, delivering presentations, and creating lesson plans, to managing my schedule – these responsibilities were met easily due to my inherent love of history, evident through reading National Geographic articles or R. L. Fox’s ‘The Search for Alexander’ book series.

My A-level subjects (History, Biology and German) have not only enabled me to explore historical inquiry more thoroughly but have also given me an appreciation of science. Supplementary AS-level studies in Mathematics and Chemistry have given me an invaluable foundation in the scientific principles that underpin humanities fields, illuminating how scientific insights can shed new light on ancient civilizations. Though I did not travel much during my studies of history, I gained knowledge about many cultures through studying History. Learning German further deepened my fascination with languages; learning ancient dialects has further deepened this appreciation of history’s complexity. While languages are indispensable tools for travel communication purposes, my true passion lies within history – something I plan on continuing my career path.

As part of my commitment to personal growth, I have spent the past year volunteering. This experience has broadened my abilities to collaborate effectively and communicate with individuals from varying backgrounds and age groups; taught valuable time management lessons; helped maintain an appropriate balance between academic responsibilities and social commitments; been immensely fulfilling; particularly realizing its profound effect on lives that may otherwise feel isolated;

My school community is vibrant in tradition; as an active participant, I have taken on multiple positions of responsibility that contribute to its dynamic fabric. From serving as a musical school student and perfect to leading my sixth-form charity team and fulfilling emotional/academic mentoring responsibilities for younger students – each experience has built my leadership and interpersonal skills further. I am immensely proud of these contributions and look forward to expanding them through active involvement in various clubs and activities beyond school, such as rowing which not only keeps me physically fit but also brings with it camaraderie/discipline associated with team sports!

My desire to pursue a History degree at one of the Russell Group universities stems from a strong desire to engage in rigorous academic inquiry, deepen my understanding of history, and contribute meaningfully to ongoing discourse within this field. With my commitment to self-improvement, voracious hunger for knowledge, and steady commitment to community engagement I hope to make an invaluable contribution both at the university level and wider historical scholarship sphere. I look forward to beginning this intellectual journey alongside esteemed academics while forging a future that combines my love of history with my persistent ambition to make lasting changes in society.

Ancient History Personal Statement

Through the centuries and millennia, cultures across history have been profoundly shaped by the relationship between ancient world and present-day cultures. Michael Crawford brilliantly observed this link when discussing how Roman authorities neglected legitimate grievances that led to its downfall, echoing today’s socialist frameworks and political systems. This profound connection between past and present has ignited my intellectual curiosity as I investigate where today’s global landscape originated from; I view classical civilizations study as essential in understanding their character and growth today.

As someone raised in an area rich with Roman archaeology, my interest in Ancient History began early on. Over time, it has transformed from passing intrigue to an eager desire to expand my knowledge base. Engaging with numerous historical texts spanning numerous periods and ancient literature such as The Iliad, Odyssey, and Aeneid has broadened my perspective. Of the many engaging fields of study available to me, the late Roman Republic holds special interest – its multifaceted factors contributing to political and social unrest at that epoch eventually leading up to Empire are particularly captivating and I am eager to uncover their intricacies more thoroughly.

My passion for ancient history led me to launch a web portal dedicated to the art, archaeology, history, culture and literature of Greek and Roman civilizations. Alongside my interest in classical period culture, art and literature is my desire to learn languages: Ancient Greek and Latin are of particular interest as I hope to master them to read, write and converse in them one day; studying this field at university would provide the perfect platform to realize these ambitions.

As part of my college experience, I developed my debate and discussion skills by actively taking part in the college debating society. Participating in lively exchanges of ideas has enhanced my intellectual development; therefore, I am committed to continuing this rewarding pursuit at the university level. Given my firm belief in political engagement, I’m delighted to join forces with the Liberal Democrats. My love for debate and discourse comes through in my written essays, as evidenced by winning an essay competition hosted by my college, where I examined political ideologies in modern British politics. Last year, I had the incredible privilege of participating in a college study trip to Greece that provided firsthand experiences of significant sites of ancient Greek civilisation – such as Delphi’s sacred centre and Epidaurus theatre – which I will always treasure.

As a sports enthusiast, I enjoy participating in and watching football, cricket and golf – I am an active member of Surrey Cricket Club – in my free time. Additionally, walking provides great peace; this summer provided me with an opportunity to traverse a section of North America’s Appalachian Trail! Additionally, as an advocate of architecture preservation, conservation and restoration in Britain – being an active member of the National Trust gives me access to their wide portfolio of properties under their protection and care.

As my plans develop, my ultimate career goal involves heritage management and conservation work within museum work environments. To gain first-hand exposure, I am currently seeking relevant work experience. Furthermore, as part of my post-university trajectory, I would love to take up further study; particularly Ancient History due to its captivating figures of antiquity that offer opportunity through primary sources, remnants from ancient built environments, discussion, debate literature history politics architecture of antiquity courses will propel me toward success!

My passion for Ancient History, nurtured through both personal and academic pursuits, compelled me to embark upon an intensive undergraduate program in this field. The ancient world’s myriad lessons and timeless allure draw me in; by exploring its mysteries I hope to gain greater insight into present and future situations. With an insatiable desire for knowledge and a dedication to intellectual growth, I eagerly anticipate contributing and flourishing within the vibrant academic community at the university.

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How to write a personal statement for history

Tips for convincing history tutors that you deserve a place on their course

H istory is the tenth most popular subject to study at degree level in the UK, and with many universities forgoing candidate interviews, your personal statement is the most important way to make yourself stand out. The competition is fierce (the top universities require grades of A*AA), and a muddled or mediocre statement will harm your application.

So how can would-be historians impress application tutors? Dr Elizabeth Tingle, of Plymouth University, wants the statement to reflect the candidate who wrote it. She says: "When we talk about originality in personal statements, we really mean individuality."

Southampton University's Dr McHugh agrees that many applications are "too generic and vague. We want to get a sense of who you are as an individual, and what kind of student you would be."

This individuality should not be achieved through wild or outrageous methods; your statement doesn't need to be written in old English, or abstractly represent the consciousness of Thomas Cromwell. If you do something outrageously different, there's probably a reason why no one's done it before.

Instead, a personal statement should show something of you as a person, and convey your own unique engagement with history. Dr Ryrie, historian of religion at Durham says:

"The kind of personal statement that warms an admissions tutor's heart is the kind which is honest: which describes, in genuinely personal terms, quite why the student loves the subject, and conveys something of their passion for it".

'Passion', however, is a controversial word. UCL's Dr Jason Peacey complained that "it gets a bit tiring reading hundreds of forms where the student proclaims that they have a 'passion' for history".

Dr Ansari, head of history at Royal Holloway, agrees, and wants "genuine expressions of interest in history, but not in terms of 'I am passionate about...'. Simply wanting something strongly is not enough".

You need to convince admissions tutors that you have the intelligence and academic ability needed to successfully undertake a degree in the subject.

Dr Peacey says: "Students don't always do enough to explain what it is about history that interests them, why this interest can only be met by undertaking more study at a higher level, and what should make me think that they have the potential and ability to study at this level".

The same sentiments are also mentioned by Dr McGladdery, admissions officer at St Andrews. "Studying and writing about what happened in the past has little purpose if students cannot develop the skill of critical evaluation. Historiographical awareness is very important, as is the ability to present an opinion supported with evidence and cogent analysis."

Students who show that they have considered the subject in relation to other academic avenues are likely to impress. As Dr Gadja, of Oxford university, says:

"Historians like to take insight from a huge range of perspectives, so we are always delighted when students can demonstrate how their interest and ability at foreign languages, philosophy, or political thought, literature, and so on, might intersect with their historical interests, and be of use in their development as historians".

A clear, competent analysis of the ways in which your different subjects interact, and how this has aided your ability as a history student, can be a valuable inclusion in your personal statement.

Dr Gadja says that it is important to mention extra-curriculur interests. For Gadja, an interest in visiting museums, going to public lectures, and anything that shows an interest in history beyond the demands of one's A-level course, would be relevant.

If you have had any relevant work experience, do mention it, but it must have had a definite impact on your approach to thinking about history. If you haven't managed to gain experience in a historical field, though, don't worry too much.

Gadja says: "we certainly don't look for relevant work experience when making decisions – most applicants will not have had the fortunate opportunity to work in jobs relating to the heritage industry or similar, and that doesn't put them at a disadvantage at all".

Mention of non-academic areas in which you are wonderfully talented should be limited to a couple of sentences at most, and should always be linked back to the ways in which they have contributed to your academic or personal development; such as by improving time-management, or organisational skills.

Dr Simon Smith, of Oxford University, say: "Unlike some US universities or colleges, UK universities are not seeking to admit quotas of musicians, sports people, or thespians."

It is important to write the statement in clear, concise prose, avoiding the use of formulaic words or phrases. Dr Peacey says:

"If I had a pound for every time I had been told that history is important because, as George Santayana said, those who fail to understand the mistakes of the past will merely repeat them... then I would be a rich man indeed."

Try and avoid stilted references to the "eternal value" and "enduring fascination" of the past. Far more impressive is to explain and analyse what it is that makes you so interested in history, and specific areas in particular.

Above all, you should engage with the concepts that you are discussing, rather than just stating them. As Dr Ryrie says:

"Make us feel that you are a person of vision and imagination, for whom your outstanding A-level performance is just the beginning."

Avoid anything bland or dull, and make the personal statement a reflection of your individual talents and interests. You want your statement to be different and engaging, otherwise it will slip through admissions tutors' fingers without leaving a mark.

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Successful Personal Statement For History At Oxford

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it.

Today, we are looking through a History applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The History Course at Oxford combines the examination of large regions over extended periods of time with more focused work on smaller social groups, shorter periods and particular themes.

Read on to see how this candidate demonstrates that they can understand and analyse history.

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant uses most of the 4,000 characters available):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Oxbridge History comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts.

Your tutor will give you actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.

History Personal Statement

My passion for history can best be explained by discussing the period of German Unification, which displays the most engrossing virtues of studying the subject. Firstly there is great scope for debate and exploration of the interlocking causations, examining the relative importance of Bismarck’s own role against the military strengthening of Prussia or the shifting international relations. But most interestingly it is a defining period in the shaping of modern Europe and the way in which it links the past to the present is most fascinating. Studying this period reveals how international relations progressed after the Napoleonic era leading to the way in which Germany was unified through war and thus became a country built around war. It is therefore arguable that this era created the state which would then trigger the two wars which have shaped the modern world. This period shows how history can give us a more rounded understanding of the world we live in, linking our mysterious and intriguing past to our all too familiar present surroundings. It is partly this, which motivates me to study history as in doing so I gain immense satisfaction from learning how our world has evolved.

An understanding of history also provides a fundamental backdrop for any other areas of study. I have found this through my other A-Level subjects, for example historical knowledge of politics in Britain was essential to AS politics, particularly when studying the political situation in Ireland. An understanding of past conflicts is indispensable when it comes to managing contemporary politics. Furthermore, whilst taking French the study of Un Sac De Billes by Joseph Joffo unearthed experiences of living under Vichy France. To learn a language fully it is important to immerse oneself in the culture and history of the country in order to develop a more rounded understanding of the people who live there. Thus it seems that history is inescapable; it not only provides vital background knowledge but also helps bring to life every other academic subject, which is why in my opinion, it is the most important.

During my A Level history course, the Napoleonic era particularly fascinated me and I pursued my interest through further reading, looking specifically at Napoleon’s downfall, an area I found most compelling as it offers the greatest exposition of the psychology of this exceptional man. I read Digby Smith’s ‘The Decline and Fall of Napoleon’s Empire’ as well as Zamoyski’s ‘1812’. I picked up on several themes throughout Zamoyski’s book and developed my own opinions such as sympathetic stances towards General Barclay and the Tsar, but was particularly intrigued by how Napoleon let his ego drive his pre-war diplomacy and how Napoleon’s own role in the breakdown of the Treaty of Tilsit perhaps triggered his eventual downfall. The fact that I was so gripped by so many different themes within an historical study of one war also reveals another aspect of history that is so appealing to me. It offers vast numbers of different avenues to pursue in one’s research, whether it is Napoleon’s diplomacy or the fallibility of the Russian command.

Outside of my academic studies, I am a dedicated sportsman but have particularly flourished musically as a cellist, obtaining a grade 8 standard in year 11 and am a committed member of various ensembles. Music has coloured my historical studies, for example, I played various Shostakovich symphonies coinciding with my study of Stalinist Russia at GCSE, each with a very different feel depending upon his relationship with Stalin, but perhaps most moving was playing his 10 th symphony, a purely self-indulgent expression of relief after the death of the dictator. It is impossible to appreciate this great work without its historical context, which transforms the piece into something personal, attaching the listener emotionally. History is not only fascinating in itself, but it enriches our appreciation of all other interests.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

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The student speaks intelligently and successfully links their interests – both within history and outside of history – to the study of history on a wider scale. The statement is well organised and reads well. Paragraph three, in particular, has many strong points with a greater focus on what really interests the student and why. The student does well to focus on the different areas of exploration within history showing a strong awareness of the nuances within historical study.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

The statement focuses too much on what the student knows, rather than what interests the student – the first paragraph, in particular, reads too much like an essay, and less like an exploration of why this student actually wants to study history. The student risks falling into a trap of trying to teach and impress the admissions tutor with their knowledge instead of offering a more personal approach. The student also needs to try to avoid repetition, for example ‘most interestingly’ and ‘most fascinating’ within the same sentence in order to ensure the whole statement flows better.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This is a very strong, well-written Personal Statement. The student has clearly proved they can both understand and analyse history. The student perhaps needs to focus more on their own motivations behind studying history, but overall, the statement suggests a student with great potential and zeal for the subject. What would make the student stand out even more is a stronger closing statement – something to bring the whole personal statement together.

This Personal Statement for History is a great example of a strong, well-written Statement. The candidate’s interest and achievements are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

There are plenty more successful personal statements and expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford History application.

With our Oxbridge History Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal Statement , score highly on the HAT and teach you how to Interview effectively .

Discover our Oxbridge History Premium Programme by clicking the button below to enrol and triple your chances of success.

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Personal Statement

Writing a personal statement (statement of purpose).

Your personal statement (also called a statement of purpose) is an essential component of your application to the graduate program in history at UGA. This short document serves multiple purposes . In it, you:

Introduce yourself;
Explain what "sparked" your interest to pursue graduate study in history;
Showcase your academic background;
Describe your specific academic goals while in graduate school; and
Align your academic interests with our graduate program.

Before beginning your statement, you might want to free write answers to the following questions (courtesy of the AHA ): "Why do I want to pursue a graduate degree in history? What do I want to study? Academically, how well prepared am I for graduate study?" Our faculty are looking for applicants who have a clear sense of purpose and can demonstrate a strong commitment to their chosen area of study.

All good statements will highlight your academic and research experiences , and how these experiences will help you while in graduate school; your specific academic interests and career goals , including your proposed research project while in graduate school, any specific disciplinary subfields (e.g., museum studies or Latin American and Caribbean Studies), and your professional objectives after graduate school; and your specific fit with our program , including faculty you would like to work with and why and how your research interests fit with their own intellectual trajectories.

They will also be succinct and well-written. Make sure you adhere to the page and/or word limit. Proofread and edit your statement multiple times. Our program has a 2-page, single-spaced maximum limit for the personal statement.

We suggest you follow the department of history at the University of Alabama's guidance when structuring your statement. It should include:

An introduction. This is less personal autobiography and more a brief explanation of why and how you became interested in historical research.
A brief summary of your undergraduate and (if applicable) previous graduate career. This summary should be about your academic and intellectual trajectory (how you got to be interested in your current project) and any projects undertaken (undergraduate or MA thesis) and specific skills acquired during that time (including research, language, and programming skills).
A discussion of your recent/current activities. Here, you can elaborate on what you have included in your CV. Remember to connect your activities to your academic and intellectual goals.
UA's Department of History succinctly outlines what you should include in this section: "First indicate the area of your interests — describe the place and period you want to study and what kinds of broad questions you wish to explore. It is often a good idea to indicate which scholars’ work you admire, or what approaches to historical research interest you most. Next explain precisely what you want to research and what specific questions are shaping your project. PhD applicants should describe the project they wish to undertake for their dissertation." MA applicants can describe specific projects as well.
The last section of the essay should describe "fit": why are you good for our program and why is our program good for you? Rather than simply listing faculty names with whom you want to work, explain why their approaches, methods, topics fit with your own academic goals. Remember to highlight what you will bring to our program, whether that's a new perspective or new skills.

Additional Resources:

AHA, Resources for Graduate Students (see their Admissions section)

Paul Boyer (AHA), "Graduate Applications: The Important Elements"

Emily Elia, (Rice University), "Grad School 101: Writing the Personal Statement"

National Council on Public History, "Writing the Personal Statement"

Princeton University Department of History, Example Statements

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How to Write a Personal Statement

A personal statement can be a key part of your college application, and you can really make yours shine by following a few tips.

[Featured Image] A lady with pink hair is holding a piece of paper with a laptop on her lap.

When you're applying to college—either to an undergraduate or graduate program—you may be asked to submit a personal statement. It's an essay that gives you the chance to share more about who you are and why you'd like to attend the university you're applying to.

The information you provide in your personal statement can help build on your other application materials, like your transcripts and letters of recommendation, and build a more cohesive picture to help the admissions committee understand your goals.

In this article, we'll go over more about personal statements, including why they're important, what to include in one, and tips for strengthening yours.

What is a personal statement?

A personal statement—sometimes known as a college essay —is a brief written essay you submit with other materials when applying to college or university. Personal statements tend to be most common for undergraduate applications, and they're a great opportunity for an admissions committee to hear your voice directly.

Many colleges and universities in the US, especially those using Common App , provide prompts for you to use. For example, "Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea" or "Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time" [ 1 ]. If the school you're interested in attending doesn't require prompts, you will likely want to craft a response that touches on your story, your values, and your goals if possible.

In grad school, personal statements are sometimes known as letters of intent , and go into more detail about your academic and professional background, while expressing interest in attending the particular program you're applying to.

Why is a personal statement important?

Personal statements are important for a number of reasons. Whereas other materials you submit in an application can address your academic abilities (like your transcripts) or how you perform as a student (like your letters of recommendation), a personal statement is a chance to do exactly that: get more personal.

Personal statements typically:

Permit you to share things that don't fit on your resume, such as personal stories, motivations, and values

Offer schools a chance to see why you're interested in a particular field of study and what you hope to accomplish after you graduate

Provide an opportunity for you to talk about past employment, volunteer experiences, or skills you have that complement your studies

Allow colleges to evaluate your writing skills

Bring life to a college application package otherwise filled with facts and figures

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How to write a personal statement.

As we mentioned earlier, you may have to respond to a prompt when drafting your personal statement—or a college or university may invite you to respond however you'd like. In either case, use the steps below to begin building your response.

Create a solid hook .

To capture the attention of an admissions committee member, start your personal statement with a hook that relates to the topic of your essay. A hook tends to be a colorful sentence or two at the very beginning that compels the reader to continue reading.

To create a captivating hook, try one of these methods:

Pose a rhetorical question.

Provide an interesting statistic.

Insert a quote from a well-known person.

Challenge the reader with a common misconception.

Use an anecdote, which is a short story that can be true or imaginary.

Credibility is crucial when writing a personal statement as part of your college application process. If you choose a statistic, quote, or misconception for your hook, make sure it comes from a reliable source.

Follow a narrative.

The best personal statements typically read like a story: they have a common theme, as well as a beginning, middle, and end. This type of format also helps keep your thoughts organized and improves the flow of your essay.

Common themes to consider for your personal statement include:

Special role models from your past

Life-altering events you've experienced

Unusual challenges you've faced

Accomplishments you're especially proud of

Service to others and why you enjoy it

What you've learned from traveling to a particular place

Unique ways you stand out from other candidates

Be specific.

Admissions committees read thousands of personal statements every year, which is why being specific on yours is important. Back up your statements with examples or anecdotes.

For instance, avoid vague assertions like, "I'm interested in your school counseling program because I care about children." Instead, point out experiences you've had with children that emphasize how much you care. For instance, you might mention your summer job as a day camp counselor or your volunteer experience mentoring younger children.

Don't forget to include detail and vibrancy to keep your statement interesting. The use of detail shows how your unique voice and experiences can add value to the college or university you're applying to.

Stay on topic.

It's natural to want to impress the members of the admissions committee who will read your personal statement. The best way to do this is to lead your readers through a cohesive, informative, and descriptive essay.

If you feel you might be going astray, ensure each paragraph in your essay's body supports your introduction. Here are a few more strategies that can help keep you on track:

Know what you want to say and do research if needed.

Create an outline listing the key points you want to share.

Read your outline aloud to confirm it makes logical sense before proceeding.

Read your essay aloud while you're writing to confirm you're staying on topic.

Ask a trusted friend or family member to read your essay and make suggestions.

Be true to your own voice.

Because of the importance of your personal statement, you could be tempted to be very formal with structure and language. However, using a more relaxed tone is better than you would for a classroom writing assignment.

Remember: admissions committees really want to hear from you . Writing in your own voice will help accomplish this. To ensure your tone isn't too relaxed, write your statement as if you were speaking to an older relative or trusted teacher. This way, you'll come across as respectful, confident, and honest.

Tips for drafting an effective personal statement.

Now that you've learned a little about personal statements and how to craft them, here are a few more tips you can follow to strengthen your essay:

1. Customize your statement.

You don't have to completely rewrite your personal statement every time you apply to a new college, but you want to make sure you tailor it as much as possible. For instance, if you talk about wanting to take a certain class or study a certain subject, make sure you adjust any specifics for each application.

2. Avoid cliches.

Admissions committees are ultimately looking for students who will fit the school, and who the school can help guide toward their larger goals. In that case, cliches can get in the way of a reviewer understanding what it is you want from a college education. Watch out for cliches like "making a difference," "broadening my horizons," or "the best thing that ever happened to me."

3. Stay focused.

Try to avoid getting off-track or including tangents in your personal statement. Stay focused by writing a first draft and then re-reading what you've written. Does every paragraph flow from one point to the next? Are the ideas you're presenting cohesive?

4. Stick to topics that aren't controversial.

It's best not to discuss political beliefs or inappropriate topics in your essay. These can be controversial; ideally, you want to share something goals- or values-driven with an admissions committee.

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Article sources

1. Common App. " 2022-2023 Common App Essay Prompts , https://www.commonapp.org/blog/2022-2023-common-app-essay-prompts." Accessed January 9, 2024.

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Spring Enrollment Applications will be accepted May 1 - September 1, 2024 Interviews will take place both in-person and virtually between September and October Admissions decisions will be released in October Start date: January 22, 2025

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* All documents become property of the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and are not returnable to the applicant.

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Opponent history.

Former Calvin U president releases statement amid lawsuit

Former Calvin University President Wiebe Boer

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Calvin University’s former president released a statement Wednesday days after filing a lawsuit alleging the university defamed him and breached his contract.

That lawsuit arrived following claims Wiebe Boer texted inappropriate messages to a non-student. The university previously noted the comments weren’t sexual but were “unwelcome and inappropriate.” In Boer’s statement, released through his attorney, he says the text messages were made to someone he “considered a friendly acquaintance” in a span of 10 days.

“What could be considered flirtatious by one person could also be considered simply friendly or light-hearted by another,” Boer explains, going on to assert there was nothing morally wrong communicated in his messages.

“This person was also texting [my wife] in a friendly nature throughout this same time,” says Boer. “None of this is as nefarious as Calvin’s Board would have you believe.”

Boer says he awaits the court’s “fair and unbiased review” of the case.

Read Boer’s full statement below:

Boer Statement 4.17.24 by WXMI on Scribd

Meanwhile, Greg Elzinga, Calvin University's interim president, sent a letter this week to the Calvin community.

In it, he says, "I'm reaching out...with some troubling information that is very serious. Please take a moment to watch this short video message."

Elzinga references Boer's legal complaint against the university and threats to the physical safety of a member of Calvin's community that have transpired from it.

He goes on to say, "On Saturday evening, we became aware of multiple threats against a member of the administration who is named in the legal complaint. I want to be very clear — this must stop. Regardless of how you feel about the board's handling of Dr. Boer's resignation, it is never acceptable to threaten or attack other members of this community."

Click here to watch the full video.

READ MORE: Former president sues Calvin University, alleges breach of contract, defamation

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Unlock the past at Leicester University.

Dive into Elizabethan London, revolutionary Russia, and the Aztec Empire. Choose a History degree.

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History Personal Statement

I am captivated by the ways in which History has moulded the world’s leading economies and has set the standards for the social values that surround us; this shows the influence that history has on the modern world, in seeking a more prosperous future that allows us to thrive. History enables us to understand the foundations of modern societies and gives us an insight into the lives and philosophies of those who envisioned it. By studying these shifts in societal norms, I wish to advance my understanding of the concept of human error and how we can implement it into our lives, to ensure a secure future. The impact that history has on the world around us has always fascinated me and is why I wish to continue studying it.

My passion for History stems from my education and experiences. By visiting historical landmarks such as; Hampton Court Palace and St Pauls Cathedrals, I was able to enhance my knowledge beyond the classroom; this fuelled my curiosity in learning about different eras and the history of our predecessors. After studying Civil rights in the USA, I read, ‘Better Day Coming’ by Adam Fairclough in addition to watching documentaries on the topic in order to broaden my knowledge of historic moments and events, that have had major impacts on the world and still have relevance to today’s society. One topic, outside of the school syllabus, that has interested me was on the ancient Chinese dynasties and has provided me with knowledge regarding the development of the Chinese culture up to, and following, the 1911 rebellion and has enabled me to form a stronger understanding of the motivations of later leaders such as Mao Zedong and Sun Yat Sen.

My visits and further willingness to seek knowledge has led me to pursue A-levels in; Classical Civilisation and History which have allowed me to extend my range of knowledge in both ancient and modern History. This has given me the ability to analyse changes in; trends and interpretations throughout time and in different regions of the world. In AS history I studied the conflict and change in 19th and 20th Century Britain and focused, in particular, on the changing role of women during this period. By researching this I was able to form an understanding of how various groups in society gained more social and economic freedoms, and the varying methods that they had to use in order to achieve them.

In combination with History and Classical Civilisation, I am currently studying Mathematics through this I was chosen to represent my school in the junior and senior Maths challenges. My interest in Mathematics has provided me with a deeper understanding into further analytical and problem solving, which have aided my studies in History.

My commitments outside of formal education, that include; being part of the National Citizen Service programme as well as my part-time job, have given me a wide range of skills which are beneficial in preparing me for university. In addition to this my work experience has given me practical skills and has allowed me to develop a broader understanding of the careers I wish to pursue. I feel that at degree level my knowledge and abilities will be challenged allowing me to strengthen my understanding of History. I hope that my enthusiasm and commitment will support me in securing a career in which I can implement the skills that history provides.

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History and English Literature have been by far my most exciting studies in the Sixth Form. Ever since discovering historical literature I have been engrossed by the way the two disciplines coexist and entwine, an interest intensified by school ventures to the Reichstag building, Ypres battlefield and Auschwitz.

My drive to understand the intricacies of foreign relations and populist rebellion has inspired me to study transcripts of tapes recorded during the Cuban Missile Crisis and read Zola's 'Germinal' respectively. Literature and History are, to me, inextricably linked. To explore the consequences of war, revolution and social change upon a generation of poets, playwrights and authors is to understand the making of the modern world, and it is that which I find so utterly compelling.

It strikes me as essential that Literature students should understand the social conditions in which their favourite authors were inspired or condemned. My study of the James Baldwin novels 'Giovanni's Room' and 'Another Country' offered absorbing accounts of rage, sexuality and racial segregation, paralleling the momentum of the Civil Rights Movement in 1960s America. Baldwin's evocative experiences within the novel urged me to study the turbulence of the Kennedy Presidency in my History coursework.

I am deeply passionate about investigating the relationship between literary works and historical context and aspire to continue in this field after University; therefore I am confident that a joint degree in History and English Literature is the ideal course for me.

Studying Politics at A Level has greatly complemented my study of both History and English Literature by enabling me to assess the complicated relationships of power that exist today while improving my critical essay-writing skills. Studying Drama to AS Level has not only increased my confidence and public speaking abilities but taught me the importance of teamwork and commitment to the cast.

I have used these skills in the school Debating Society, of which I am a founding member and have recently qualified for the regional round of the Debating Matters competition. Research required for debate preparation has broadened my knowledge of political and scientific topics relevant today and taught me how to form cohesive, rational arguments and authenticate evidence.

I took part in a Mediabox course in which I wrote and directed a short film in July 2007. This provided me with the ability to accept constructive criticism and strengthened my written work. I am also an aspiring poet and regularly attend the poetry discussion group at my local bookshop.

This has allowed me to receive feedback, refine and develop my own literary style. One of my biggest achievements was being asked to read in the Northern Liners festival last year at Newcastle's Literary and Philosophical Society.

As a regular speaker at UK Youth Parliament meetings I have had the opportunity to structure and maintain arguments and represent the viewpoints of others in an engaging and imaginative format. Assisting in History lessons as a classroom supporter has allowed me to offer guidance, listen and relate to younger students.

Being a Ranger at a local Guiding branch for three years and currently undertaking the v50 voluntary project has also taught me the values of organisation and time management; with careful planning I am able to meet all deadlines.

Having thoroughly enjoyed my A Level studies so far, the challenges and opportunities that a joint degree in History and English Literature will provide is a thrilling prospect and I eagerly look forward to my time at University.

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This personal statement was written by lolcartz1991 for application in 2000.

lolcartz1991's Comments

I'm pretty happy with my personal statement. With it I applied to Cardiff, Southampton, Lancaster, Leicester and St. Andrews universities last week. I hope it helps :)

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Wed, 17/10/2012 - 20:08

This personal statement is inspiring, informative, and above all helpful. I want to study the same course as you and how you structure and write your personal statement has been important in helping me think about my personal statement when I apply next year. Thank you!

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How Mike Johnson Got to ‘Yes’ on Aid to Ukraine

Intelligence, politics and personal considerations converted the Republican speaker, who had largely opposed aid to Ukraine as a rank-and-file member, into the key figure pushing it through Congress.

Share full article

‘History Will Judge It Well,’ Speaker Johnson Says of Aid to Ukraine

Speaker mike johnson successfully defied the anti-interventionalist wing of the republican party and got the house to approve a $95 billion foreign aid package for ukraine, israel and taiwan..

“I know there are critics of the legislation. I understand that. It is not a perfect piece of legislation. We’re not ensured that in a time of divided government and in a time where there are lots of different opinions. But there is no question whatsoever that the House has made many strong improvements to the Senate bill and the product that we’ve sent over there is much better. This is an important matter. I think it’s timely. I think you’ve heard from leaders around the world, including in Ukraine, that this is being done on a timely basis, and the House had to have the time to deliberate and do this in the right manner. I think we did our work here, and I think history will judge it well.” Reporters: [unintelligible] “Mr. Speaker, you’re being asked to resign. Will you?” “Have you spoken to Mr. Jeffries about that? And do you plan to if it’s brought?” “No, listen, I — as I’ve said many times, I don’t walk around this building being worried about a motion to vacate. I have to do my job. We did. I’ve done here what I believe to be the right thing, and that is to allow the House to work its will. And as I’ve said, you do the right thing, and you let the chips fall where they may.”

By Catie Edmondson

Reporting from the Capitol

For weeks after the Senate passed a sprawling aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, Speaker Mike Johnson agonized over whether and how the House would take up funding legislation that would almost certainly infuriate the right wing of his party and could cost him his job.

He huddled with top national security officials, including William J. Burns, the C.I.A. director, in the Oval Office to discuss classified intelligence. He met repeatedly with broad factions of Republicans in both swing and deep red districts, and considered their voters’ attitudes toward funding Ukraine. He thought about his son, who is set to attend the U.S. Naval Academy in the fall.

And finally, when his plan to work with Democrats to clear the way for aiding Ukraine met with an outpouring of venom from ultraconservatives already threatening to depose him, Mr. Johnson, an evangelical Christian, knelt and prayed for guidance.

“I want to be on the right side of history,” Representative Michael McCaul of Texas, the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, recalled the speaker telling him.

Mr. Johnson’s decision to risk his speakership to push the $95 billion foreign aid bill through the House on Saturday was the culmination of a remarkable personal and political arc for the Louisiana Republican. It was also an improbable outcome for a man plucked from relative obscurity last fall by the hard right — which had just deposed a speaker they deemed a traitor to their agenda — to be the speaker of a deeply dysfunctional House.

As a rank-and-file hard-liner, Mr. Johnson had largely opposed efforts to fund Kyiv’s war effort. And early in his speakership, he declared he would never allow the matter to come to a vote until his party’s border demands were met.

But by the time he made clear he planned to band together with Democrats to muscle through the aid package over the objections of many in his party, Mr. Johnson was speaking a starkly different language.

“History judges us for what we do,” he told reporters at the Capitol last week. “This is a critical time right now. I could make a selfish decision and do something that’s different. But I’m doing here what I believe to be the right thing. I think providing lethal aid to Ukraine right now is critically important.”

Mr. Johnson attributed his turnabout in part to the intelligence briefings he received, a striking assertion from a leader of a party that has embraced former President Donald J. Trump’s deep mistrust of the intelligence community.

“I really do believe the intel,” Mr. Johnson said. “I think that Vladimir Putin would continue to march through Europe if he were allowed. I think he might go to the Baltics next. I think he might have a showdown with Poland or one of our NATO allies.”

Mr. McCaul, who repeatedly huddled with Mr. Johnson and the chairmen of the other congressional national security committees in a secure room of the Capitol where lawmakers can review classified material, described Mr. Johnson’s journey as “transformational.”

“All of a sudden, he’s realizing that the world depends on this,” Mr. McCaul said. “This is not some little political game on the floor.”

One of the most impactful briefings, according to people familiar with the discussions, came in February in the Oval Office , when congressional leaders met with Mr. Biden to discuss government funding and aid for Ukraine. At that meeting, Mr. Burns and other top national security officials sought to impress upon Mr. Johnson how rapidly Ukraine was running out of ammunition, and how dire the consequences would be if their air defenses were no longer reinforced by American weaponry.

Convinced that they would come around to his way of thinking, Mr. Johnson repeatedly urged Republicans who opposed the funding measure to go to the secure space at the Capitol and receive the same intelligence briefings, according to people he spoke to.

Mr. Johnson was also struck by the stories he heard in meetings with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and others about the magnitude of the misery Russian forces have unleashed across the embattled nation. All of it tugged at Mr. Johnson’s sense of Christian faith.

The speaker also faced mounting political pressure to act. Senate Democrats had struck a deal with Republicans to pair the aid to Ukraine with strict border measures, as the G.O.P. had demanded, but after Mr. Trump denounced it, Republicans rejected it out of hand. Then the Senate passed its own $95 billion emergency aid legislation for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan without any immigration measures, and the onus was on the House to do the same.

Adding to Mr. Johnson’s predicament, he found himself badly out of step with the three other congressional leaders, most notably Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican of Kentucky, who vocally supported bolstering Kyiv and saw it as a critical part of his legacy.

That was evident at the White House meeting in February, which Senator Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York and the majority leader, described as an “intense” pile-on.

“Everyone in that room was telling Speaker Johnson how vital” sending aid was, he said then .

Privately, Mr. Johnson was huddling with his allies and puzzling over what measures they could include in a national security package to make it more palatable to Republicans. At retreats in Florida in February and West Virginia in March, he was already in discussions with Representative French Hill, Republican of Arkansas, about the REPO Act, which would pay for some of the aid by selling off Russian sovereign assets that had been frozen.

That provision, which he described as “pure poetry,” later became a key part of Mr. Johnson’s effort to sell his conference on the aid bill.

Around the same time, Mr. Johnson began — first privately, then loudly — telling allies that he would ensure the U.S. would send funding to Kyiv.

“I think he always understood the importance of this and believes in the importance of this,” Representative Mike Lawler, Republican of New York, said. “The function of being speaker is to try to build consensus, and I think he wanted to find consensus among the conference. Unfortunately, there are some folks that are just unwilling to compromise.”

In a small meeting with lawmakers, Mr. Johnson “made it pretty clear that if we didn’t get this done in April, that it could be too late for Ukraine,” Representative Don Bacon, Republican of Nebraska, said.

Patience among politically vulnerable Republicans who wanted to cast a vote in support of Ukraine also was running out. Mr. Johnson told reporters on Thursday that he believed that if he did not act soon, G.O.P. lawmakers would try to circumvent him by using a procedure called a discharge petition to force a vote on the Senate bill.

“If the House did not do this better policy and process — allowing for amendments on the floor in the process tomorrow — we would have had to eat the Senate supplemental bill,” he said.

By the time he agreed to advance an aid package, he had to contend with a wave of anger from his political home — the right wing of the Republican conference — whose members accused Mr. Johnson of betraying them, and repeatedly urged him to change course.

In a heated scene in the back row of the House chamber last week, a group of hard-liners surrounded the speaker and urged him to tie the foreign aid package to stringent anti-immigration measures.

Mr. Johnson pushed back, replying that he would not have enough Republican support to advance such a measure. He told them he was not worried about his own speakership, but was seriously worried about Ukraine’s ability to hold off Russia without U.S. aid, according to a lawmaker on the floor for the discussion.

“My message to the speaker has been: ‘Stay true to the mission,’” Mr. Hill said. “You know what has to be done. And you know that you have to do the best you can, with the circumstances that we found ourselves in.”

The passage of the aid package unleashed a fresh wave of fury among hard-liners. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, who is leading the charge to oust Mr. Johnson, promised that more Republicans would rally to her side.

“This is the third betrayal by Mike Johnson,” she fumed on the House steps minutes after the vote on Saturday, citing the government funding bills and legislation he advanced to renew an expiring warrantless surveillance law as his first two transgressions.

“A foreign war package that does nothing for America?” she continued. “It’s unbelievable. I’m thankful that America gets to see who this man is.”

For his part, Mr. Johnson skipped a victory lap on Saturday, never taking to the House floor to make the case for any of the aid bills — as speakers almost always do when matters of major import come before the chamber — and staying away as lawmakers cast their votes. After the legislation’s passage, he offered clipped remarks about the importance of the aid and chastised Democrats who had waved Ukrainian flags on the floor, noting that the only flags that should be displayed in the chamber were American ones.

But earlier in the week, Mr. Johnson had been more reflective, telling reporters that during tough times, he took comfort in an adage about former President John Quincy Adams’s time in Congress.

Another lawmaker asked Mr. Adams why he continued bringing up the same resolution to end slavery, only to see it fail each time. In Mr. Johnson’s telling, Mr. Adams replied: “Duty is ours. Results are God’s.”

“To me, that’s a very liberating thought,” Mr. Johnson said. “I’m going to do my duty, and the results are not ultimately up to me. I’m comfortable with that. We’ll see what happens, and we’ll lay the chips down on the table.”

Catie Edmondson covers Congress for The Times. More about Catie Edmondson

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History Personal Statement Examples | Uni Compare. Bedfordshire has a 95% graduate employment rate for career prospects, find out more! Ranked in the global top three universities for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024) Taken from 65,000+ data points from students attending university to help future generations.
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Department of History, Princeton University Personal Statement When I arrived at Princeton, my understanding of "history" was circumscribed and tinged grey by high school courses that involved little more than memorizing a textbook and synthesizing curated snippets of primary sources into short essays. It was
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History personal statements: how to impress. It's all about selecting examples and experiences that really help to demonstrate your love of the subject. Also show how - and why - you're interested in a particular historical topic, trend or period. 'Don't simply write things such as "I think history is vital to understanding the world ...
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Keep it personal. Your personal statement should be just that - personal. "Communicating your enthusiasm for the subject is very important in the personal statement," says Christian at the University of Gloucestershire. "But it is also important to tell us about yourself beyond the subject. "Don't feel that everything has to be about ...
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History Personal Statement Example. History, which has fascinated and engaged me from early on in my education journey, has become my deep passion and formed my intellectual journey. Teaching History at AS-Level proved transformative despite initial scepticism from others: through my independent study of the Crusades and Norman Conquest of ...
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A clear, competent analysis of the ways in which your different subjects interact, and how this has aided your ability as a history student, can be a valuable inclusion in your personal statement ...
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Armed with a passion for History, I happily anticipate spending the next few years of my life immersed in as many aspects of History as possible. Thereby furthering my own understanding of the past and how it has crafted the world we live in today. This personal statement was written by Matthew103542 for application in 2014.
Successful Personal Statement For History At Oxford
Today, we are looking through a History applicant's Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The History Course at Oxford combines the examination of large regions over extended periods of time with more focused work on smaller social groups, ... This Personal Statement for History is a great example of a strong ...
Personal Statement
Your personal statement (also called a statement of purpose) is an essential component of your application to the graduate program in history at UGA. This short document serves multiple purposes. In it, you: Introduce yourself; Explain what "sparked" your interest to pursue graduate study in history; Showcase your academic background;
History Masters Personal Statement Sample
This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in History. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement. The Black Lives Matter protests over the last few years have sparked interesting debates about the role of nationality, memorial and history in our modern society.
History Personal Statement Example (Cambridge Offer Holder)
Have received offers to study History (V100) at: University of Cambridge (A*AA) Durham University (A*AA) University College London (AAA) University of Leeds (AAA/AAB with an A in History) University of Sheffield (ABB) This personal statement is unrated. Human civilisation fascinates me. Watching Andrew Marr's "History of the World" opened my ...
How to Write a Personal Statement
A personal statement—sometimes known as a college essay—is a brief written essay you submit with other materials when applying to college or university. Personal statements tend to be most common for undergraduate applications, and they're a great opportunity for an admissions committee to hear your voice directly.
Personal History Statement
The Personal History Statement helps reviewers learn more about you as a whole person and as a potential graduate student. This may include relevant details on community service, leadership roles, participation in diverse teams, and significant barriers that you overcame to attend graduate school. The Purdue University Graduate School ...
How to Apply
Spring Enrollment Applications will be accepted May 1 - September 1, 2024 Interviews will take place both in-person and virtually between September and October Admissions decisions will be released in October Start date: January 22, 2025. Fall Enrollment Applications will be accepted July 1, 2024 through April 1, 2025 Interviews will take place both in-person and virtually between April and ...
Men's Basketball History
Men's Basketball History - Brown University Athletics
Ancient and Modern History Personal Statement Example 1
This personal statement was written by astina_93 for application in 2013. astina_93's university choices The University of Durham The University of Nottingham The University of Reading The University of Kent. Green: offer made Red: no offer made. Degree History and Politics at Oxford University. Ratings. This personal statement is unrated
Over 100 Arrested at Columbia After Pro-Palestinian Protest
Nemat Shafik, the president of Columbia University, sent the following statement to faculty on Thursday. To the Columbia University community: This morning, I had to make a decision that I hoped ...
Riggs Resigns as Swimming and Diving Coach
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - Vic Riggs has resigned as West Virginia University men's and women's swimming and diving coach, Vice President and Director of Athletics Wren Baker announced today. "I want to thank Coach Riggs for his many years of service and dedication to our swimming and diving program. Our program is better thanks to the contributions Vic and his staff have made over his tenure.
Former Calvin U president releases statement amid lawsuit
Read Boer's full statement below: Boer Statement 4.17.24 by WXMI on Scribd Meanwhile, Greg Elzinga, Calvin University's interim president, sent a letter this week to the Calvin community.
History Personal Statement 8
History Personal Statement. I am captivated by the ways in which History has moulded the world's leading economies and has set the standards for the social values that surround us; this shows the influence that history has on the modern world, in seeking a more prosperous future that allows us to thrive. History enables us to understand the ...
History & English Literature Personal Statement Example
Having thoroughly enjoyed my A Level studies so far, the challenges and opportunities that a joint degree in History and English Literature will provide is a thrilling prospect and I eagerly look forward to my time at University. This personal statement was written by lolcartz1991 for application in 2000. lolcartz1991's Comments.
How Mike Johnson Got to 'Yes' on Aid to Ukraine
Intelligence, politics and personal considerations converted the Republican speaker, who had largely opposed aid to Ukraine as a rank-and-file member, into the key figure pushing it through Congress.

History Personal Statement Example

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Successful Personal Statement For History At Oxford

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History Personal Statement

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Personal Statement

How to Write a Personal Statement

What is a personal statement?

Why is a personal statement important?

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How to write a personal statement.

Create a solid hook .

Follow a narrative.

Be specific.

Stay on topic.

Be true to your own voice.

Tips for drafting an effective personal statement.

1. Customize your statement.

2. Avoid cliches.

3. Stay focused.

4. Stick to topics that aren't controversial.

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How to Apply

1. The UB Application

2. $50.00 non-refundable application fee

3. CV/Resume

6. Unofficial transcripts from all institutions

International Applicants

7. English Language Proficiency

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Former Calvin U president releases statement amid lawsuit

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